BREAKING: Former Cleveland Guardians pitcher Triston McKenzie has officially signed a minor league contract with the San Diego Padres, set to report to spring training in February 2024. This urgent move follows a turbulent season for McKenzie, who once showed immense promise as a starter.
McKenzie, who spent 11 years with the Guardians organization, struggled significantly last season, appearing in just four games before being designated for assignment on April 16. He recorded an alarming 11.12 ERA during his brief stint with the big-league team, leading to his acceptance of an outright assignment to Triple-A Columbus.
The 28-year-old right-hander faced a steep decline, finishing the minor league season with a 7.17 ERA over 21.1 innings, striking out 31 batters while walking the same number. Once a bright star for Cleveland, McKenzie was the team’s second overall pick in the 2015 draft, but injuries and performance issues have hampered his career trajectory.
“Triston has faced numerous challenges, but this fresh start with the Padres under the guidance of pitching coach Ruben Niebla offers him a new opportunity to revitalize his career,” an official source stated.
During his time with the Guardians, McKenzie showcased flashes of brilliance, including a standout 2022 season where he posted an 11-11 record and a 2.96 ERA in 31 games. However, injuries plagued his 2023 season, culminating in a shoulder strain that sidelined him for much of the year.
As he joins the Padres, McKenzie aims to reclaim his status as a reliable starter. This transition not only marks a new chapter for him but also reflects the Padres’ commitment to bolstering their pitching lineup as they prepare for the upcoming season.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely watching how McKenzie adapts to this pivotal change. With spring training just around the corner, the stakes are high as he strives to turn his career around. Stay tuned for further updates on McKenzie’s performance and the Padres’ spring training developments.
